‘It's a big blow for us’ - Onyeka laments Fredrick's absence from Super Eagles squad for AFCON

Fredrick, who is on loan at Belgian club Dender FH, was widely expected to be named in the final squad for the tournament in Morocco. 

However, a knee injury has ruled him out, forcing Nigeria to proceed without one of their most promising defensive talents.

Onyeka emphasised that the 20-year-old had quickly established himself as a vital member of the national team before a knee injury derailed his participation.

Speaking to the BBC, Onyeka explained that Fredrick's presence, both on and off the pitch, made his absence a particularly tough pill for the team to swallow.

"It's a big blow for us because Benjamin has integrated himself into the team and everybody loves him," Onyeka stated. 

"He has done so well in the games that he has played. We expected him to be a very big part going into the tournament."

"As a guy, as a player, he's just outstanding. The way he reads the game defensively is just so strong."From Obscurity to a Key Role

Fredrick's breakthrough arrived during the Unity Cup in May, following a series of injuries and withdrawals that left head coach Eric Chelle with a depleted squad, prompting him to give Fredrick an unexpected call-up.

He delivered composed and authoritative performances as Nigeria triumphed over Jamaica in the final to win the invitational tournament. 

His ascent was rapid from that point, with Chelle trusting the defender by including him in Nigeria's final four World Cup qualifiers and the two crucial World Cup play-off matches in Morocco.

By the time discussions for the AFCON roster began, Fredrick was considered a strong contender for a starting position, not just a squad player.

Unfortunately, his momentum was cut short by the knee injury sustained in Belgium, which will keep him sidelined until the new year.